What was done to him was like what happens on the train, when you think you are moving forward, but are moving backward, and suddenly find out the real direction.
"Yes, it was all not right," he said to himself, "but never mind. I can, I can do 'right.' But what is 'right'?" he asked himself and suddenly grew still.
--from The Death of Ivan Ilyich
Category Archives: The Pious Life
lately
O God, you will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are fixed on you; for in returning and rest we shall be saved; in quietness and trust shall be our strength. Isaiah 26:3; 30:15 Almighty and eternal God, so … Continue reading
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Everything feels so fragile. O God, who knows us to be set in the midst of so many and great dangers that by reason of the frailty of our nature we cannot always stand upright: grant us such strength and … Continue reading
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our Friend
Chains shall he break For the slave is our brother And in his name all oppression shall cease… Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we In all our trials born to be our Friend. I think people misunderstand … Continue reading
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regrets
I think about a recent time in my life where I thought what I was doing was okay. I still think that, in a sense, it was permissible. But I do not think it was beneficial to anyone involved. So … Continue reading
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hope
I am feeling fear and sadness and weakness about things of the past, present, and future. Yes, when I feel miserable I make sure to be very complete! But I know myself well enough to recognize this silly pattern. So … Continue reading
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